1956 Femme se coiffant II Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a figure engaged in the act of styling her hair. Here we observe a woman positioned centrally within the frame, her posture suggesting a deliberate and somewhat forceful manipulation of her hair. Her arm is raised high above her head, the hand pressed firmly against the side of her face, creating a dynamic diagonal line that bisects the composition.
The artist’s treatment of form deviates significantly from naturalistic representation. Facial features are simplified and stylized; the eyes are large and almond-shaped, conveying an intensity or perhaps preoccupation. The nose is rendered as a sharp triangle, and the mouth appears small and subtly downturned. This reduction in detail contributes to a sense of anonymity while simultaneously emphasizing the emotional state conveyed through posture and expression.
The color palette is restricted, dominated by muted greens, browns, grays, and creams. The green garment she wears provides a vibrant contrast against the paler background, drawing attention to her upper body. The limited range of colors reinforces the overall mood of introspection or melancholy.
The background itself appears as an abstract plane, with a grid-like pattern faintly visible in places. This geometric element introduces a sense of confinement or structure that contrasts with the figure’s dynamic pose. It could be interpreted as representing the societal pressures and expectations placed upon women during the mid-20th century.
The paintings subtexts revolve around themes of identity, self-presentation, and perhaps even entrapment. The act of styling hair can be seen as a ritualistic performance, a means of constructing an image for public consumption. However, the woman’s expression suggests a degree of discomfort or resignation rather than pleasure or confidence. Theres a sense that she is performing a role, adhering to prescribed norms while simultaneously feeling constrained by them. The overall effect is one of quiet tension and understated psychological complexity.